Barcelona shifts focus to Mikel Merino for midfield reinforcement

Barcelona continues its search for a replacement for Sergio Busquets, with a new target emerging. The club is now eyeing an experienced Spanish international familiar with La Liga.

While Joshua Kimmich’s name has been heavily linked by the Catalan press, President Joan Laporta tempered expectations recently.

Laporta stated that while signing a midfielder is crucial for next season, a big-name signing is not guaranteed.

Instead, the focus may be on promoting players like Marc Casadó from the reserve team.

However, recent reports from SPORT suggest Barcelona is now interested in Mikel Merino as their midfield pivot.

The 27-year-old Spanish international, playing in La Liga for four seasons, is seen as a more reliable option than Oriol Romeu.

Real Sociedad is wary of Barcelona’s interest, especially as Merino’s contract expires in 2025, raising concerns of a potential departure this summer.

The club’s president has expressed a desire to convince Merino to stay but admits to some apprehension due to his contract situation.